How to Test for Mold in Dwellings

Mold can grow in even the newest of homes.

To grow, mold requires moisture and food, both of which can be found in homes in the form of wood and sheetrock, particularly in naturally moist areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Most authorities, including state government officials and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recommend against purchasing air testing kits or sample tests to check your dwelling for mold; however, there are other steps you can take to determine if you have a problem.

1

Review you or your family members’ symptoms. Constant nasal or sinus irritation while in the home and regular coughing or unexplained rashes may indicate that there is a mold problem in your dwelling. If you or a member of your household has asthma, an increase in attacks may also indicate that mold is present.

2

Unplug or remove any air fresheners in your home and then leave for a few hours. The simplest way to test your dwelling for mold is by simply using your nose, and these products can mask the telltale musty scent. Leaving for a few hours will allow your senses to “reset.”

3

Check each room of your home for the scent of mold, which often smells dusty or earthy, coupled with a wet, close-in scent. Pay close attention to areas that are naturally damp, including the kitchen, bathroom and the basement, if applicable.

4

Look for mold growth. These types of fungi can appear in various colors, including gray, brown, black, yellow, green or even white. The mold often appears fuzzy or coarse on hard surfaces or as a stain on upholstered areas (such as furniture).

5

Check areas where you know there is a chance of moisture leaking or collecting, or in recently exposed to standing water. These include air-handling units (air conditioners, humidifiers, furnaces) or areas that have recently been flooded.

6

Move furniture if you still believe you have mold yet have not visually confirmed the fact; oftentimes, this fungi grow in areas where you are not likely to look, like behind furniture.

7

Contact a professional to remove the mold if you find any. Most experts do not recommend testing the mold to determine what kind it is; if it’s present, you should have it removed, especially if you or member of your household is experiencing unwanted side-effects.

8

Refrain from having your air tested. As mold is a naturally occurring organism, there are mold spores in the air at all times. As there is no set standard for what density of spores indicates a problem, going through expensive air tests will typically give you no more information than thoroughly checking your home. If you do decide to have the air tested, question several companies as to what amount of mold spores they believe is normal and always get a second opinion.

About the Author

Amanda Bell spent six years working as an interior designer and project coordinator before becoming a professional writer in 2010. She has published thousands of articles for various websites and clients, specializing in home renovation, DIY projects, gardening and travel. Bell studied English composition and literature at the University of Boston and the University of Maryland.